Name of the Condition

• Autoimmune thyroiditis
• Also known as Hashimoto's thyroiditis or chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis.

Summary

Autoimmune thyroiditis is a condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid gland, leading to chronic inflammation and often resulting in decreased thyroid function, or hypothyroidism.

Causes

• Genetic predisposition plays a significant role.
• Environmental factors such as excessive iodine, selenium deficiency, and radiation exposure.
• The presence of other autoimmune disorders.

Risk Factors

• Gender: More common in women than men.
• Age: Typically occurs in middle-aged individuals.
• Family history of autoimmune thyroiditis or other autoimmune disorders.
• Presence of other autoimmune diseases like type 1 diabetes or celiac disease.

Symptoms

• Fatigue and weakness
• Weight gain
• Cold intolerance
• Hair loss or thinning hair
• Dry skin
• Constipation
• Depression
• Enlarged thyroid gland (goiter)

Diagnosis

• Blood tests to measure thyroid hormone levels (T3, T4) and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH).
• Detection of thyroid antibodies (anti-thyroid peroxidase and anti-thyroglobulin antibodies).
• Ultrasound of the thyroid gland to assess inflammation or swelling.

Treatment Options

• Levothyroxine: A synthetic thyroid hormone used to restore adequate hormone levels.
• Regular monitoring of thyroid hormone levels to adjust medication dosage.
• In cases of large goiters causing symptoms, surgical intervention may be considered.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• With proper treatment, most individuals lead normal, healthy lives.
• Regular follow-up appointments are crucial to monitor thyroid hormone levels and adjust medication as necessary.

Complications

• If untreated, can lead to severe hypothyroidism, myxedema coma, heart problems, and mental health issues.
• Increased risk of developing other autoimmune disorders.

Lifestyle & Prevention

• While there is no known prevention, lifestyle changes such as a balanced diet, regular exercise, and stress management can help manage the condition.
• Regular monitoring if there's a family history or presence of other autoimmune diseases.

When to Seek Professional Help

• Seek medical attention if experiencing symptoms of hypothyroidism or if there is a noticeable change in weight, energy levels, or mood.

Additional Resources

• American Thyroid Association (www.thyroid.org)
• Thyroid Foundation of America (www.thyroid.org)
• Local support groups for individuals with thyroid disorders.

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure accurate capture of the condition by using ICD code E06.3.
• Distinguish from other thyroid conditions, such as non-autoimmune hypothyroidism.
• Verify the presence of thyroid antibodies in medical records for accurate coding.